There is no doubt that there have been horrible, brutal, heartbreaking events that have happened over the past couple weeks. What adds to that turmoil is the fact that the stories that popped into your head while reading this are only the stories that have gotten media attention; awful things go on around us every day. But, specifically, the week long horror that plagued Orlando was unlike any other. I know this happened a few weeks ago now; however, we cannot just let it slide. We cannot just forget about it. We must remember in order to change.
I began my 20 day work trip to Orlando on June 14, 2016, just two days after the shooting at Pulse Nightclub. Orlando was already shook up over the tragic death of Christina Grimmie and the Pulses shooting just added to the already existent grief. Sitting in the airport, I began to grow very uneasy as I looked around and saw the dreadful scene over and over again, news reporters everywhere I looked, talking about who did it, why, how, and so on. I have flown on an airplane probably around 25 times in my mere 20 years, I have lived and I have never once felt nervous, until my flight to Orlando. I have worked in Orlando for the past five years and I never felt uncomfortable, until my recent trip. There is something so terribly wrong about feeling scared and uncomfortable in your own country, doing something you do routinely.
My own uneasiness made me feel awful. I was just a passenger getting on a plane to go to my hotel room; I was in no danger. There were people fearing for their lives in a club that was supposed to be a fun place to express themselves. And for what? For being themselves? For expressing their sexuality? They were doing something they should be allowed to do. We have fought for equality, acceptance, and love for years now. So, where is all of that?
The ignorance that followed after the massacre was appalling and disgusting. I saw posts made about how the victims could have defended themselves, how they should not have been there, and even the Westboro Baptist Church protesting the funerals of the victims. I cannot think of another word other than despicable and disgusting.
However, with all the hate going on I still saw love. I saw people dressing up as angels peacefully across from the Westboro protesters. I saw communities coming together to support one another. I saw people raising money for families. I saw Orlando and Gay Pride flown high and strong everywhere I looked. I saw people sticking up for victims they have never met. With everything horrible that happened, love made its way through.
I think that is very important to focus on with all the madness happening. I think it is important to mourn and always remember the victims and the tragedies that strike our country and countries around the world; however, I think the world needs to focus on the stories of love and peace as well. Small acts of kindness, big acts of kindness, loving one another, forgiving one another, loving even when its hard to; it all makes the world a better place. Love is what keeps the world running. Love is what keeps people alive. Love is what we need in this world. More love, less hate. I know that would be in an ideal world but if we keep focusing on the love, feeding into the love, showing love, spreading love ... love will win.
